Attention to Mind – Feb 14, 2024
I noticed that it takes me a very conscious effort to focus on just my breathing. But, it was possible. I really only felt like I was just focusing on my breathing a few times while I was sitting, but I still appreciate that I was able to do it at all. I will admit that I cut my 20 minutes in my place a little short (it was cold!) but the time I spent outside felt very beneficial. At first, the cold air on my face felt almost grounding, it’s another constant sensation to focus on. Then it got a little much and became a bit distracting. I found something mentioned in this chapter to be beneficial to today’s place visit: the idea of telling your thoughts you’ll deal with them later. It’s something that takes an annoying amount of effort sometimes, and relates to some coping skills I learned in therapy, which was an interesting connection.
Create an Ending Ritual – Apr 24, 2024
“All circles begin with an end,” is a line from one of my favorite songs, “All Circles” by mewithoutYou. As I dwell on my place visits, I find myself thinking of this sentiment and the end of my first year of college. My first place visit was strange, I didn’t really know what I was doing or if my place was right. I suppose this echoes how I felt going into this year as well, I felt I didn’t know if I would find my place and groove in college, having come from a high school where I struggled to belong. Embracing the uncertainty, creating rituals, and being open to new things helped me in general this year but also with my place visits. As this year draws to a close, I’m appreciating how this end is a new beginning; how the timelines of our lives aren’t lines, but ever-connected circles. This place feels familiar, and I’m going to miss it when it’s not just outside my door. But, saying goodbye reminds me that endings and beginnings are always connected.
